Concern: Northfield Elementary School: September 12th, 2018 (CXXNES201800003D)

Location
144, 145, B11, and B13
Date of IEQ Report Form
Date of Report
Concern
Relative humidity mold growth was identified by custodial staff in rooms 144 and 145.

The Office of the Environment was made aware of the concern on August 9, 2018 by phone. The concern is incorrectly dated September 12, 2018.
IEQ Investigation Process

Identify deficiencies that may impact IEQ and/or sources of odor concerns. Typically includes the following depending on the nature of concern, but not limited to:

  • interview/questionnaire of concern individual(s)
  • inspection above drop ceiling (condition of roof deck, pipe insulation, return air plenum)
  • inspection of ventilation system (operation of variable air volume box and outdoor air dampers, check controls, measurements of carbon dioxide, temperature and relative humidity, sources near outdoor air intake, measure return and supply air volume, cleanliness of coils, liner and condensate pan)
  • inspection of exterior
  • inspection below drop ceiling (housekeeping, sink and floor drain traps, signs of past and present moisture concern via visual and/or moisture meter, mold growth, ensure connection of current and capping of abandoned sanitary vents, odorizers, excessive plants and fabric items, identify potential pathways, and measure volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, and lighting)
Findings

The Office of the Environment visited Rooms 144 and 145. Custodial Services had already cleaned impacted materials.

The Office of the Environment inspected materials within Rooms 144 and 145. Several items were observed to still be impacted by relative humidity mold growth. Custodial Services was asked to re-clean these materials.

The Office of the Environment returned on August 21, 2018 to inspect Rooms 144 and 145. No mold growth was identified. During the inspection, custodial staff indicated instruments in B11 and B13 may contain mold growth.

The Office of the Environment assessed rooms B11 and B13 and confirmed the presence of mold growth on select instruments.

Corrective Actions
August 22nd, 2018

A board-approved restoration contractor cleaned/disinfected materials (desks, cabinets, instruments, etc.) in Room B11 and B-13. Air scrubbers equipped with High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters were operated within the spaces during the cleaning. Air scrubbers were operated within the spaces for approximately 24-hours after the cleaning.

Air scrubbers were also delivered and operated for approximately 24-hours to rooms 144 and 145.

Building Services and the Office of Environment will continue to monitor the situation during the cooling season and make necessary corrections to eliminate excessive humidity levels within the classrooms. A review of the ventilation systems that services the rooms will occur.

Closed
Yes
Date Closed
Tracking Number
CXXNES201800003D